Growing misuse of telecommunications tools for online scams has triggered fresh enforcement action by Malaysian authorities. Regulators have flagged the increasing use of SIM Box devices and bulk SIM cards as a major enabler of cybercrime and fraud activities.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said SIM Box devices, along with large volumes of SIM cards including foreign SIMs, are being exploited to create fake online accounts at scale. These setups allow criminals to bypass digital platform security systems and carry out online fraud and other cybercrimes, posing risks to users and the national communications network.
In a recent joint operation with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in Kajang, authorities seized 50 SIM Box devices, 5,000 SIM cards, and related equipment for investigation. The operation and follow-up probe were led by PDRM, while MCMC conducted parallel investigations under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the Communications and Multimedia (Technical Standards) Regulations 2000.
“Misuse of SIM Box devices and bulk SIM cards, including foreign SIM cards, allows criminals to create fake accounts for the purpose of committing fraud and cybercrime, thereby endangering users,” MCMC said in a statement.
Under Section 239 of Act 588, individuals found guilty of such offences may face fines of up to RM100,000, imprisonment for up to 2 years, or both.
MCMC stressed that the abuse of SIM Box devices and SIM cards to generate fake online identities is a serious threat to national security. “Telecommunications service providers must tighten SIM card registration controls to ensure digital safety,” the Commission said.
The regulator added that it will continue close cooperation with PDRM and other enforcement agencies to curb the misuse of telecommunications services, strengthen compliance with existing laws, and protect users from online threats.
Authorities also released images from the Kajang operation, showing the seized 50 SIM Box devices, 5,000 SIM cards, and supporting equipment. The enforcement action took place as part of broader efforts to disrupt scam networks and cybercrime operations. – January 31, 2026
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